The holidays can be a magical time. However, with all of the traveling, rough weather, and group outings, there can also be the potential for danger. For the individual who wants to be prepared, there are several ways to get ready for the holidays.

To begin with, it’s important to prepare for optimum safety while traveling. This starts with a home security system. The holidays make it easy for criminals to scout out empty homes and take advantage of busy schedules. So, it’s best to set up an alarm before you leave.

Once your home is prepared for your busy holiday schedule, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for traveling in rough weather and on crowded highways.

Prepare Your Vehicle for the Holidays

Before you get on the road, make sure to inspect and service your vehicle. One of the most common issues for travelers during the holidays is car trouble.

If you blow a tire or break down during the winter, it can be deadly. The winter months are especially brutal on tires, so make sure your tires are rotated when needed and replaced as recommended for your vehicle. In addition to preparing your ride, it’s also important to be ready to drive on icy roads. Make sure you know how to properly maneuver your vehicle when encountering ice, and try to avoid rough weather altogether whenever possible. If you’re traveling in the mountains, bring a set of tire chains.

Finally, make sure to plan your route ahead of time. It may be best to stick to the main roads, rather than using service ones. This might mean running into unwanted traffic, but the main roads are generally better maintained and well lit. Not to mention, if you crash, there will be passing motorists to help. It’s best to be safe, rather than early, when it comes to driving in inclement weather.

Planning Ahead for Holiday Travel

In addition to knowing routes for travel, it’s also vital to have a fully charged cell phone and an extra charger with you in the car. If you don’t have a car charger, it may be a good idea to invest a few bucks in a cigarette lighter charger just in case. A cell phone not only comes in handy if your car breaks down, but also if members of your party get lost in a crowd or will catch up with you at a later time, as you will have the ability to contact them. There are numerous occasions where an extra cell phone can be useful.

Besides a cell phone, it’s also a good idea to have some other necessities in your vehicle. Items like water, protein bars, road flares, emergency tools, and blankets should be stored in your vehicle to be prepared in the event of an emergency.

Bonus Tips for Prepared Travelers

Every traveler knows it’s vital to use hand sanitizer at all times, but especially during the cold and flu season. Carry some extra hand sanitizer in your EDC or at least in your vehicle to avoid getting sick during the holiday season.

If you are traveling long distances, consider letting others know about your specific plans. Make sure someone knows your exact itinerary, and even consider sending this person copies of important documents. This way, if something happens, someone will know where you are, or at least where you should be. In addition, this person will also be able to help out if you simply lose a credit card, passport, or other important documents while traveling.

Disclaimer: The content in this article is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of US Patriot Tactical.

Brock Swinson is a writer living in North Carolina with his wife, Jess. As a writer for Creative Screenwriting and the host of the Creative Principles Podcast, Swinson frequently interviews creators such as Mel Brooks, Aaron Sorkin, Taylor Sheridan, and William Monahan, on storytelling. Outside of work, Brock is currently training for an Iron Man, practicing jujitsu, and looking for new trails to run with his husky mix, Tessa.

Author Description

Brock Swinson

Brock Swinson is a writer living in North Carolina with his wife, Jess. As a writer for Creative Screenwriting and the host of the Creative Principles Podcast, Swinson frequently interviews creators such as Mel Brooks, Aaron Sorkin, Taylor Sheridan, and William Monahan, on storytelling. Outside of work, Brock is currently training for an Iron Man, practicing jujitsu, and looking for new trails to run with his husky mix, Tessa.